Before I took my first Art of Living course, volunteering was something I aspired to do but never really followed through with. The perceived lack of time and energy would be my usual alibi, along with ‘more important’ tasks at hand. This isn’t to say that there aren’t times when these dynamics overrule my desire to be of service. But thanks to breathwork, meditation, and insightful wisdom, I have learned a lot about the art of volunteering. 

Insightful Wisdom

Global humanitarian, spiritual teacher, and founder of the Art of Living and the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s vision of personal and social transformation through mental health and wellness has ignited a global movement in over 180 countries, uplifting the lives of more than 500 million people. This movement is comprised of volunteers. In fact, both organizations are two of the largest volunteer-run nonprofits in the world.

Here are some of the things Gurudev has said about volunteering, also known as seva or service.

“Who is a volunteer? One who comes to help, without being asked to help; one who is self-motivated, and inspired, becomes a volunteer.”

“A true volunteer does not expect appreciation or reward. A volunteer gains so much joy – that joy, itself, comes as the reward for service.”

“The strength of a volunteer comes from the challenges they are ready to willingly face.
Often a volunteer moves beyond boundaries as they find they are capable of doing so many things they never ever thought of doing.”

“Spiritual practices enhance both the volunteer and the actions of the volunteer.”

“Do service as much as you are capable of. Put all your energy into it. Whatever service you do within your capabilities will bear good results. The feeling and the intention behind every seva is important.”

“Pleasure simply brings more cravings. But often one looks for contentment through pleasure. True contentment can only come through service.”
 
“Whatever is necessary to be done in the world, just do it. Whatever the time and place require you to do, do it. That is Seva.”

“When you bring some relief or freedom to someone through seva (service), good vibrations and blessings come to you. Seva brings merit; merit allows you to go deep in meditation; meditation brings back your smile.”

Why Volunteer? 

If you feel blessed, you naturally feel the need to give back. And if you feel depressed, you need to be of service so you shift to a better state of mind. Volunteering adds a richness to your life that nothing else can.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Improves physical and mental health
• Have a sense of purpose
• Learn valuable skills
• Make new friends
• Opportunity to give something back
• Boosts self-confidence and life satisfaction
• Strengthens the community
• Reduces depression

Volunteer Training

Many non-profits offer volunteer training programs so don’t worry about not having a particular skill set. The Red Cross offers a variety of volunteer training classes including disaster relief training.

The Art of Living also offers training programs to enhance your leadership, teamwork, and communication skills (some prerequisites needed). Wherever you volunteer, ask if training is available.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Local hospitals and senior centers welcome volunteers in many capacities
• Neighborhood schools need help with everything from lunch to crosswalks
• Local churches, temples, and synagogues are always looking for volunteers
• Find the best volunteer opportunities near you using VolunteerMatch or Americorps.gov
• Federal agencies also need volunteers at Volunteer.gov
• Art of Living Retreat Center (residential 3-12 months)

Volunteer for an unparalleled, historic celebration of peace and diversity at the World Culture Festival in Washington DC, Sept 29th to Oct 1st

Donation Opportunities

Giving a financial gift is another way of being of service to local or global communities. Even small donations can make a big difference in the quality of life for those in need or where a positive impact is needed.

• International Association for Human Values service projects (Ukraine Refugee Relief, Women Empowerment, Green Pocket Forests, Cities4Peace, Prison Program, Project Welcome Home Troops, SKY Schools, and more)
• World Culture Festival (Art of Living)

Use Charity Navigator to find charities that align with your passions and also see how they are rated so you can contribute with confidence.

One World Family

Great humanitarians like Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr, and Nelson Mandela do not belong to just one part of the world, they belong to all of us! Boundaries are just a manmade configuration. In reality, we are a one-world family. And as a family, we need to take care of each other. And just like all of the great humanitarians, past, present, and future, we too can make a difference.
 

Breathwork, Meditation, and Service

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, breathwork and meditation made a difference in my ability to volunteer. As part of my SKY Breath Meditation course, I started doing Random Acts of Kindness and honoring our National Day of Service by placing flowers on car windshields at a nearby hospital on September 11th. Though not exactly what you think of when you think of volunteering, for me it was certainly a stepping stone. 

The more I used my SKY technique, the more energy I had and the more gratitude I felt. Volunteering became easier and more natural. I found the time and I was energized! Now I volunteer regularly and my life is even better because of it!

If you’re curious to know more about SKY, I invite you to attend our free breath and meditation session. SKY has undoubtedly improved my life and I know it will yours too!

Inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s wisdom, programs, and service projects.

You may also enjoy reading After the Fear: 4 Ways You and Love Can Move the World Starting Today!